The Adrenaline and Glycerin are two flagship models in the Brooks Running series with similar names that are as confusing as Nimbus and Cumulus in the Asics series.
First of all, we must compare what is comparable. The Adrenaline GTS is a shoe for overpronation as evoked by the acronym in its name, which means Go-To-Support. Thus, it features the Guide Rails technology that prevents the foot from rolling (inward or outward) while running.
On the other end, the Glycerin is available in two versions: GTS (for overpronation) and standard (neutral support).
Cushioning
This is the main difference. The Glycerin is more cushioned with a thick 38 mm heel stack height and a heel-to-toe drop of 10 mm. The sole of the Adrenaline GTS is thinner with 35 mm in the heel and a drop of 12 mm (so 23 mm under the forefoot compared to 28 mm for the Glycerin).
The underfoot feel is soft in both cases. However, the Glycerin has a major joker in its version 22: the new supercritical foam DNA TUNED. This latest technology gives a nitrogen-infused midsole to give it a lighter, more bouncy structure. The result is responsive cushioning with a pretty amazing energy return for a trainer intended for daily training.
The result is relatively responsive cushioning for this type of shoe, designed for daily training and recovery. The Adrenaline GTS also performs well, especially since it is a stability shoe.
Foot lockdown
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 does a better job in this regard: its engineered mesh provides impeccable foot lockdown and comfort.
On the other hand, testers did not appreciate the engineered mesh of the Glycerin, which supports the foot in a somewhat hazardous manner.
Finally, note that the classic Glycerin is heavier than the Adrenaline GTS with 11 g/0.4 oz more.
Adrenaline or Glycerin: Which One to Choose?
Overall, the Brooks Glycerin 22 is the better option due to its new DNA TUNED foam and lighter weight.
If you have to choose between the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 and the classic Glycerin 22, then the former is a better choice because it’s lighter with better foot lockdown.
That’s it! Hopefully, this isn’t too confusing. This is just our humble 2 cents, but Brooks Running would benefit greatly from streamlining their series and discarding a few fringe versions.
Side-By-Side Comparison Table
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9.2  |
9.3  |
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|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Description | The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is a comfortable, versatile stability trainer featuring firm but stable and protective cushioning. | The Brooks Glycerin 22 is a premium, ultra-comfortable running shoe for daily training. This new version features a more responsive foam. |
|
9.5
8
9.5
10
9.5
9
8.5
|
9.5
8.5
9.5
9
9
9.5
9.5
| |
| Facts | ||
| Terrain | Road | Road |
| Support | Overpronation (stability) | Neutral |
| Heel stack height | 35 mm | 38 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 23 mm | 28 mm |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 12 mm | 10 mm |
| Weight (men) | 277 g | 288 g |
| Weight (women) | 262 g | 262 g |
| Features | Vegan, Recycled materials | Vegan, Heavy runner, Recycled materials |
| Athletes | ||
| Release year | 2024 | 2025 |
| Technologies | ||
| Outsole | RoadTack | Rubber RoadTack |
| Midsole | DNA LOFT V3, GUIDERAILS | DNA TUNED |
| Upper | Engineered Air Mesh | Tricot double jacquard |
| Cushioning | ||
| Cushioning | Firm | Balanced |
| Responsiveness | Low | Medium |
| Use | ||
| Distance | Short, 5K, Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon | Short, 5K, Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon |
| Speed | Slow, Moderate | Slow, Moderate |
| Workouts | Daily running | Daily running, Recovery |
